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Drug interactions

Lapatinib + Tolvaptan

Severity: Major

Lapatinib and Tolvaptan: major interaction.

Last updated

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Summary

Lapatinib inhibits CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein and may increase tolvaptan exposure. This can result in excessive diuresis, dehydration and too rapid correction of sodium.

What this interaction means in plain words

Lapatinib and Tolvaptan can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.

Lapatinib belongs to Oncology; Tolvaptan belongs to Endocrine.

Evidence level: Low

Why it happens

Inhibition of CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein by lapatinib reduces tolvaptan clearance.

What to do

Avoid if possible, or lower the tolvaptan dose and monitor serum sodium and volume status.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
  • Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
  • What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Lapatinib with Tolvaptan?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Lapatinib and Tolvaptan can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Lapatinib inhibits CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein and may increase tolvaptan exposure. This can result in excessive diuresis, dehydration and too rapid correction of sodium.

How serious is the interaction between Lapatinib and Tolvaptan?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid if possible, or lower the tolvaptan dose and monitor serum sodium and volume status.

What other medicines interact with Lapatinib?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Lapatinib with, for example, Dofetilide, Ibutilide, Pimozide. The full list is on the Lapatinib page.

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